France prop Jefferson Poirot has called time on his international career at the age of 27.
The Bordeaux-Bègles player, who captained France in 2019 and won 36 caps for his country, made three appearances in the 2020 Guinness Six Nations.
However has taken the decision to retire from international rugby, citing a desire to focus on his family.
Announcing his decision on Instagram, Poirot said: “It’s time for me to announce the difficult decision taken a few months ago. That is to step back from the holy grail that is the France team, this fantastic team that makes you dream, that is so hard to reach but is also, sometimes gruelling.
“After five seasons of investing myself and participating in this race against time, I have decided to step back and concentrate on some personal objectives. The objective of winnings titles with my club, to take the next step as a player and to be a full-time dad.”
Poirot made his debut off the bench against Italy in the 2016 Championship, making his first start the following week in a victory over Ireland.
He went on to start 32 times for Les Bleus, the last of which came against Scotland in March. However that was his only start in the 2020 Championship, with Cyril Baille having moved ahead of him in the pecking order.
For Poirot, that made the decision easier, as he explained in an interview with L’Equipe: “The situation of being a replacement could have sparked a revolt. But no, it’s tough but it had the opposite effect. I was relieved. The decision was easier to take, that is why I’m taking the right decision.”
He added on Instagram: “I wish France good luck from now on, I’m certain this team has a radiant future.
“From now on I will take on the role of being a supporter for the France team.”
